Shetland sheepdog training shouldn’t just be about educating your dog. It should also be a positive experience that both you and your pal look forward to on a regular basis. As soon as the training process is thought of as a chore, the less motivated you will feel to teach and the less interested your pet will be to learn. Therefore, you need to have fun and make learning an adventure.

How can you make shetland sheepdog training a positive experience for your dog? It’s easy when you put the following into practice:

Get to know your companion – the more you know about your sheltie the better understanding you will have of their personality, natural instincts, breed characteristics, as well as their likes and dislikes. Keep in mind, however, that while you will find plenty of valuable information when you research their kind, observing your own special buddy is more important because no two dogs – even those of the same breed – are alike.

Bond with them – Although you do need to make it clear to your pet that you are the leader of the pack and he must respect your commands and rules, you also need to show him that you are friends, enjoy his company, love him and he can depend on you. He needs to feel part of your family and be included in your life. Every day he should be taken on walks, played with and groomed. Special attention needs to be given to him on a daily basis in order to establish a strong bond of both love and trust, which are two factors that are necessary for positive shetland sheepdog training.

Be a motivated teacher – Your dog does need to learn but ultimately you are the one who makes shetland sheepdog training happen. Since this is the case, you need to be energized and inspired to teach. In other words, any time you will be giving your pet a lesson you should be in a good mood. You should never teach him when you are frustrated, impatient or are upset. Ways to motivate yourself include:

Educating yourself about dog training

Speaking with a professional instructor or taking your sheltie to obedience school

Knowing what you will teach before you begin a session

Set goals

Make it interesting – dogs, like people, learn best when they are interested in what is being taught. You can help capture his attention by praising him when he performs a command correctly, using treats as rewards, using his favorite toys as training aids, taking plenty of breaks and playing with him during break time. Note: lessons should not be longer than 5 – 10 minutes at a time.

Finally, if you want shetland sheepdog training to be positive, do not punish your pooch at any time during his sessions. If he does not do an action correctly don’t scold him or praise him. Begin the lesson again. Praise should only be given when you are pleased with him and it should be consistent and happen every time.